Netflix is available in over 190 countries, but many users discover that shows and movies they want to watch are only available in other regions. This frustrating situation happens because of licensing agreements that create different content libraries across countries. Many subscribers, who pay the same fees, naturally look for ways to change Netflix country settings to access more content.
Dedicated viewers often use comparison tools to research which countries offer better libraries, showing how important this issue is to subscribers. This guide explains how to change the country on Netflix, covering official relocation methods, VPN solutions and alternatives - all to help you access the entertainment you're looking for.
Part 1. Why Netflix Libraries Differ: Understanding Geo-Restrictions
Netflix offers different content in each country because of licensing agreements. When Netflix wants to stream a movie or show, they must negotiate rights country by country. This means a show available in the US might not be available in the UK, and vice versa. Even Netflix Originals can be restricted in certain regions due to pre-existing distribution deals.
Netflix determines your location primarily through your IP address—a digital identifier that reveals which country you're connecting from. Based on this information, Netflix shows you only the content licensed for your region.
The differences between libraries can be significant. For example, popular shows like The Office might be available in the UK but not the US, while others like Friends may appear in some regions but not others. Library sizes also vary considerably across countries:
Top Netflix Libraries by Size (2025)
| Rank (by Size Example) | Country | Approx. Total Titles | Approx. Movie Titles | Avg. IMDb Rating (Example) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Slovakia | 8,500+ | Varies | ~7.1 |
| 2 | Bulgaria | 8,000+ | Varies | ~7.1 |
| 3 | US | 5,800+ | ~3,700 | ~6.95 |
| 4 | Canada | 5,700+ | ~4,000 | ~6.95 |
| 5 | UK | 5,600+ | ~3,800 | ~7.0 |
These regional differences are why many users look for ways to change Netflix country settings to access more content.
Part 2. How to Change Netflix Country with a VPN
The most common and generally effective unofficial way to access different Netflix regional libraries is by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN works by encrypting a user's internet traffic and routing it through an intermediary server located in another country. This process masks the user's real IP address and replaces it with one belonging to the VPN server. Consequently, Netflix "sees" the user connecting from the VPN server's location and grants access to that region's library.
Using a VPN for Netflix typically involves these steps:
Step 1. Select a VPN Provider
Choose a reputable VPN service known for its ability to bypass Netflix's geo-restrictions. Providers often advertise this capability, but effectiveness can vary. You can find a VPN from here:
https://9.234456.xyz/abc.html?t=638774755713430566
Step 2. Install the VPN App: Download and install the provider's application onto the device intended for streaming (computer, smartphone, tablet). You can also use open-source proxy client like clash or V2RayN as your VPN client.
Step 3. Connect to a Server: Launch the VPN app and connect to a server located in the country whose Netflix library is desired. For example, connect to a US server to access Netflix US.
Step 4. Clear Cache/Cookies (Recommended): Especially when switching regions or encountering issues, clearing the browser's cache and cookies or the Netflix app's cache can help ensure Netflix recognizes the new location.
Step 5. Access Netflix: Log in to Netflix as usual. The platform should now display the content library corresponding to the VPN server's location.
However, this method is not without challenges. Netflix actively combats VPN usage due to its licensing obligations. The platform employs sophisticated detection systems to identify and block IP addresses associated with VPN servers. This leads to the infamous "Netflix proxy error" (often code M7111-5059) or messages stating, "You seem to be using a VPN or proxy". When this occurs, users are typically restricted to viewing only Netflix Originals or globally licensed content, effectively negating the benefit of using the VPN.
Part 3. Moving Abroad? How to Officially Change The Country on Netflix
If you're permanently relocating to another country, Netflix has an official way to change Netflix country settings, but it requires several steps:
Step 1. Cancel your current subscription
Step 2. Wait until your billing period ends (Netflix saves your viewing history for 10 months)
Step 3. Restart your account while physically located in the new country
After completing this process, your subscription price, billing currency, and available content will change to match your new location. You'll need a payment method that works in your new country, which can be challenging if you haven't set up local banking yet.
This official method for moving with Netflix differs from temporary travel. When traveling, Netflix automatically shows the local library based on your IP address, but keeps your home country settings unchanged.
Many users find the official process inconvenient compared to using a VPN, especially with the requirement to cancel and restart the subscription. While Netflix preserves your viewing preferences, the process remains more complicated than alternative methods.
Part 4. Can You Change Netflix Region Without a VPN? Exploring Alternatives
Many users wonder how to change Netflix region without VPN. While VPNs are the most popular method, there are alternatives with different advantages and limitations.
Smart DNS
Smart DNS services reroute your DNS requests through servers in other countries, making Netflix think you're accessing from that region.
- Pros
- Faster speeds than VPNs due to no encryption overhead
- Works on devices without VPN support, like Smart TVs and gaming consoles
- Simple setup through DNS settings
- Sometimes cheaper than VPNs
- Cons
- No encryption or privacy protection
- Limited to specific websites and regions
- Less reliable at bypassing Netflix blocks
- May require manual updates if your IP changes
Proxy Servers
Proxy servers route your traffic through an intermediary server to mask your IP address.
- Pros
- Some proxy extensions might work temporarily
- Free options available
- Cons
- Highly unreliable for Netflix (easily detected and blocked)
- Usually only work in browsers, not Netflix apps
- Free proxies often have slow speeds
- Potential security risks with unverified proxies
Part 5. Keep Your Favorite Netflix Shows Forever Wherever You Are
While changing regions offers access to more content, every method has drawbacks. VPNs face blocking, official region changes are cumbersome, and other alternatives have limitations. Plus, what happens when a show leaves Netflix entirely?
Netflix's built-in download feature seems like a solution but comes with frustrating restrictions:
- Time limits: Downloads expire after 48 hours to 30 days
- Device restrictions: Downloads are locked to one device
- Quantity limits: 100 downloads per device on standard plans, only 15 monthly on ad-supported plans
- Not all content: Many titles can't be downloaded at all
- Account dependent: Downloads vanish if you cancel your subscription
For those wanting permanent access to their favorite shows, StreamUlt Netflix Video Downloader offers a better solution. This tool saves Netflix content as standard video files with significant advantages.
Streamult Netflix Video Downloader
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- No expiration: Downloaded files never expire
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- Device freedom: Play files on any compatible device
- Permanent access: Keep content even if it leaves Netflix or you cancel
- Standard formats: Files saved in widely compatible MP4 or MKV formats
With StreamUlt Netflix Video Downloader, you transform temporary streaming access into a permanent personal library, ensuring you never lose access to your favorite Netflix content regardless of regional availability or subscription status.
Part 6. FAQs About Changing Netflix Country
Q1.Is it legal to change my Netflix region?
A1.Yes, using a VPN to change your Netflix region is generally legal in most places, including the US. However, it does violate Netflix's Terms of Service. Netflix usually blocks the VPN connection rather than banning your account.
Q2.Can I change my Netflix region without a VPN?
A2.Alternatives like Smart DNS and proxy servers exist, but they are often less reliable and may lack the security of a VPN. Smart DNS can work on devices without VPN support but doesn't encrypt traffic. Proxies are frequently blocked by Netflix and can be insecure. A quality VPN is typically the most effective method.
Q3.Which country has the best Netflix library?
A3.As of 2025, Slovakia has one of the largest Netflix libraries with approximately 8,000 titles. Other countries with extensive libraries include the United States (7,500+ titles), Brazil, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The "best" library depends on your preferences - Japan has excellent anime content, while the US typically has more Hollywood releases.
Q4.How does Netflix know which country I'm in?
A4.Netflix primarily determines your location through your IP address. When you connect to Netflix, the service checks your IP address to identify which country you're browsing from and then displays the corresponding content library.
Q5.What's the difference between a VPN and Smart DNS for changing Netflix regions?
A5.VPNs encrypt all your traffic and route it through servers in other countries, while Smart DNS only reroutes location-identifying information without encryption. Smart DNS is typically faster but less secure than VPNs and works better on devices without VPN support, like some Smart TVs and game consoles.
Q6.How do I change Netflix country on devices that don't support VPN apps?
A6.For devices like Smart TVs, Apple TV, or game consoles that don't support VPN apps, you have several options:
- Configure a VPN on your home router to cover all connected devices
- Use Smart DNS by changing DNS settings on your device
- Share a VPN connection from another device via hotspot
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Alex Mercer, a multimedia expert at StreamUlt, specializes in streaming video conversion, tips, and troubleshooting, providing innovative solutions to simplify digital life.
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